Shirataki rice with fresh tomatoes & basil for the win! Put a fresh, aromatic spin on a classic takeout favorite with this vibrant tomato basil fried rice. This recipe expertly balances savory, umami-rich Tamari with the subtle sweetness of blistered cherry tomatoes, aromatic yellow onions, and finely chopped garlic. Infused with a fiery pop of bird’s-eye chilies and finished with a generous handful of peppery, freshly torn basil leaves, it delivers an incredible depth of traditional, stir-fried flavor with an elegantly light presentation.
From a metabolic perspective, this dish is a triumph for blood sugar management. By replacing conventional starch-heavy white rice with zero-net-carb shirataki rice, the glycemic impact of the entire skillet drops significantly. A robust protein base of whole eggs and lean egg whites works together with healthy fats from coconut oil to slow digestion and support maximum satiety, offering a comforting, guilt-free meal perfect for any insulin-friendly or low-glycemic lifestyle.
Glycemic Index Profile
| Ingredient | Glycemic Index (GI) | Glycemic Impact / Role |
| Shirataki Rice | Extremely Low (<5) | Composed primarily of glucomannan soluble fiber; mimics the texture of short-grain rice with negligible impact on blood glucose. |
| Eggs & Egg Whites | Very Low (0) | High-quality complete protein base that stabilizes the meal and slows the assimilation of nutrients. |
| Firm, Ripe Cherry Tomatoes | Low (approx. 15) | Adds essential fiber, vitamins, and juicy texture without provoking rapid insulin responses. |
| Tamari (or Soy Sauce) | Low (approx. 20) | Fermented seasoning that provides deep savory complexity with minimal carbohydrate load. |
Savory Tomato Basil Fried Rice (Low-GI)
Description
This 'health-i-fied' wok rice dish features Shirataki noodles also known as knojac. The intention is to cook over high, hot heat to attain a smoky flavor. No matter how you cook it, fresh tomatoes and basil, veggies, coconut oil, and Tamari, give you a flavorful, filling side.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
In a bowl, whisk the eggs and egg whites with ½ teaspoon salt.
-
Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high. When hot, add half the coconut oil, then pour in the beaten egg. Cook for 15 to 30 seconds, allowing the bottom to set slightly, before stirring and turning until just set. Break up the egg slightly, then remove from the wok and set aside.
-
Heat the wok again over high heat. Add the other half of the coconut oil, along with the onions, and stir-fry for 1 minute, until slightly softened. Add the garlic and chiles and stir for 15 to 30 seconds, until fragrant. Next, add the tomatoes and 1 teaspoon of salt, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, tossing every now and then, until the tomatoes are softened. (Reduce heat to medium-high if it starts getting too smoky or the garlic begins to scorch.)
-
Add the Shirataki rice, Tamari, and half the basil, and season with 1 to 2 teaspoons of salt, to taste. Reduce heat to medium-high and stir-fry for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the Shirataki to soak up the tomato juices. As the liquid cooks off, the Shirataki rice will char (though less so if using a nonstick pan) and develop some smoky flavors.
-
Add the egg and remaining basil and toss for 1 minute. Turn off the heat and check seasonings, adding some black pepper and more salt if needed. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 276kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 47mg16%
- Sodium 720mg30%
- Potassium 1948mg56%
- Total Carbohydrate 44g15%
- Dietary Fiber 16g64%
- Sugars 22g
- Protein 14.85g30%
- Vitamin A 402 IU
- Vitamin C 196 mg
- Calcium 18 mg
- Iron 18 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Cherry tomatoes can be added whole, as they will burst while cooking. Cut up 5 or 6 of them in the beginning just to add moisture during cooking.
- Unrefined coconut oil has a low smoke point, so it is better not to use the organic variety for this recipe or whenever you cook with a hot stove.
- You can easily cut back on the salt for this recipe.
- Stir-fry dishes are meant to be cooked quickly over high heat with almost constant motion, hence the use of a wok, which makes turning food easier. It’s best to have all your ingredients prepped and nearby when you begin cooking so you can move through the cooking process quickly and develop nice smoky flavors vs. burning.
